A Bush Wedding to Remember

Under a hot African sky, Christian and Ingrid tied the knot in a Riverbed under a magnificent Jackalberry Tree.

After their first visit to Leopard Hills in 2009, Christian and Ingrid decided that Leopard Hills was the place they would love to celebrate their special day.

Friday dawned with the prospect of another hot day, but this was not to be any other day, this was to be a very special day in the lives of Christian Schmelz and Ingrid Papst. Friday 17th of February was to be the culmination of more than 10 years together, and the end of a two year engagement, as they took on a new journey in life, that of husband and wife. With the temperatures hitting the high thirties, there were times we thought we would “Schmeltz”, but a gentle breeze down the riverbed was a welcome relief.

The setting was beautiful, under the branches of an ancient Jackalberry, with the backdrop of a sandy riverbed, still shimmering with streams of water after the recent heavy rains. With the tranquillity unsurpassed, broken occasionally by the Crested Francolins voicing their unanimous chorus of celebration, adding to an atmosphere of incredible joy, it was quite simply summed up by the newlyweds, as “perfect”

As the sun dipped over the horizon, bringing a respite to the heat of the day, and the newlyweds ventured out into the bush for photographs and chilled Champagne. As night fell and the bush was enveloped by a blanked of blackness, illuminated by millions of stars, Christian and Ingrid returned to the Lodge, and guided to the Boma by the sound of drums, the celebration lasted long into the night.

Once again, we wish you both well for a future filled with happiness and laughter; it was our honour to share such a special day with you both.